Salem University Lokoja has matriculated 138 students for the 2024/2025 session and warned them against noncommitment to studies and social vices.
Salem University is the only private university in Kogi. Vice-Chancellor Prof Alewo Johnson-Akubo, who handed down the warning on Thursday at the matriculation ceremony, admonished the matriculants to develop good character and be committed to their studies.
Johnson-Akubo said that the matriculation of new students remains fundamental to any university worldwide. Therefore, “Salem University Lokoja is Matriculating her 2024/2025 students, who will be transformed into Change Agents in four or five years.”
The VC said: “We are doing this today because the foundation is Critical in life. I would say that this is the platform upon which we can talk to you about its essence and how to go about it since you have come here to learn.
“In Salem University Lokoja, a faith-based institution, we pray for you to succeed. Never tolerate indolence and social vices, but encourage hard work, commitment, and excellence.”
The VC told the students that there would be serious challenges along the academic journey, but they could surmount them all with resilience, commitment, and God’s grace.
He said all it took was for them to be wise and build their foundation on solid rock, “which is Christ, and you shall be victorious no matter the storms.”
The VC used Matthew 7:24 to admonish the matriculants to heed his advice and solely rely on God for help, not operate, whom he said would always remain a man.
Johnson-Akubo asked them to choose their friends carefully and wisely and warned them against indulging in any act that could hinder the smooth running of their studies.
“This is because we won’t hesitate to show you the way out of this university if you’re caught sneaking out of the fence or gate.
“We showed the way out to a student who was just a week old at the institution. He foolishly went on an errand to get a hot drink for a bad fellow student.
“Therefore, settle down well, study hard, and endeavour to use our well-stocked library. Here, lecturers don’t sell handouts to students,” he said.
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